Lyle's walk-off now "closed
issue" says R&A chief
Peter Dawson

The R&A, organisers of the Open championship, have said that Sandy Lyle's withdrawal from this year's championship at Birkdale is a "closed issue" after the Scot contacted them.
Lyle was criticised by R&A chief executive Peter Dawson (picture right by Cal Carson Golf Agency) after quitting his opening round after 10 holes.
"I had a letter from Sandy and we spoke on the phone," Dawson told BBC Sport.
"He does have some problem with his fingers. I think he regrets walking off and I regret one or two remarks. But I think it is a closed issue."
Lyle, 50, called it a day on 11 over par as the wind and heavy rain took its toll, a decision which attracted widespread condemnation.
"It is disappointing," Dawson said on Thursday. "I have to say professional golfers should complete a round. That is what they are paid to do."
In his shortened round Lyle, who won the Open in 1985, dropped seven shots in three holes to reach the turn in 45. He managed a par on the 10th before deciding to walk away.
"I just couldn't score and I couldn't swing the golf club in the end," he told BBC Sport at the time.
"I just thought I was doing myself more harm than good."
I couldn't really hit the ball and it was total meltdown to be honest."
Former European Tour player Mark Roe said it was "unacceptable" not to finish the round.
And some suggested Lyle's actions could also affect his hopes of becoming Ryder Cup captain.
However, American Jay Townsend argued that Lyle had earned the right to walk off the course "on the merit of his play in the past".
"It's difficult for the younger guys (in the conditions) and Sandy's now in the over-50 group," said Townsend.
"I don't think it has any bearing at all on the Ryder Cup captaincy."
Later on Thursday, 2002 USPGA champion Rich Beem also walked off after finishing the front nine on 12 over par.